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Consensus on the appropriate use of intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy in paediatric spasticity
Bernard Dan1, Francesco Motta, Johann S H Vles
1Department of Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université libre de Bruxelles, 15 Avenue JJ Crocq, 1020 Brussels, Belgium. bernard.dan@ulb.ac.be
Insights
Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) offers a targeted treatment for childhood spasticity. This consensus statement guides clinicians on its use, emphasizing evidence-based practices and the need for more research.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Spasticity in children significantly impacts morbidity and care, especially in severe cases.
- Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) is an increasingly utilized, specific treatment for spasticity.
- Existing evidence for pediatric ITB primarily stems from retrospective/uncontrolled studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a consensus statement on the use of ITB in pediatric spasticity.
- To offer guidance for clinicians based on current evidence.
- To promote expert opinion and consistent management approaches.
Main Methods:
- Development of a consensus statement based on available evidence.
- Review of existing literature, including recent randomized controlled trials.
- Expert opinion synthesis for clinical practice guidelines.
Main Results:
- Recent randomized controlled trials provide new evidence for ITB screening and therapy.
- The consensus aims to standardize the approach to ITB in pediatric patients.
- Highlights the need for further large-scale, prospective studies.
Conclusions:
- ITB is a valuable treatment option for pediatric spasticity.
- A consistent, evidence-based approach is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.
- Further research is essential to expand the evidence base for pediatric ITB.
Abstract:
Among features of motor disorders in children, spasticity is associated with considerable morbidity and problems in care, particularly in severely affected patients. Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) has been increasingly used as a relatively specific treatment modality for spasticity. To date, most of the evidence for its use in paediatric patients has come from retrospective and uncontrolled studies, although randomised, controlled trials of screening ITB and ITB therapy itself have recently been published. This consensus statement on the use of ITB in paediatric patients with spasticity was developed on the basis of currently available evidence, with the aim of providing information for clinicians, promoting an expert opinion and a consistent approach to the management of these patients and emphasising the need for further prospective, large-scale studies.
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